St. Martini (Emmerich)

St. Martini Church in Emmerich am Rhein, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands as a testament to centuries of history, resilience, and architectural evolution. Nestled along the serene banks of the Rhine River, this magnificent structure invites visitors to explore its storied past and marvel at its remarkable architectural features.

The History of St. Martini Church

The origins of St. Martini Church can be traced back to the 9th century when it was established as a collegiate church. By around 1040, a new church was constructed, marking the beginning of a long journey through time. Over the centuries, the church has endured natural disasters and the ravages of war, undergoing numerous repairs, additions, and reconstructions. Each phase of its history has contributed to the unique character of the building we see today.

One of the most significant events in the church's history occurred in 1811 when Napoleon I dissolved the collegiate chapter. Despite this, St. Martini continued to serve as a parish church, maintaining its spiritual and cultural significance for the local community.

Architectural Evolution

The architectural journey of St. Martini Church is a fascinating tale of transformation and adaptation. The original structure, built around 1040, was a three-aisled basilica made of tuff stone, featuring an eastern transept and a three-aisled choir. However, the church faced significant damage over the centuries, particularly from the Rhine River, which caused substantial destruction in 1237, 1238, and again in 1370.

In the 15th century, the northern transept was replaced by a two-aisled building with a north tower, and extensive renovations were carried out towards the end of the century. The Renaissance gable on the south side of the western end was added around 1600. In the early 19th century, the western aisle was demolished, and the floor level was raised by approximately 110 centimeters. The side aisle was rebuilt in 1874 as part of comprehensive renovations.

During World War II, St. Martini Church suffered severe damage, with the building being reduced to its outer walls in 1944. The church was reconstructed in a simplified form by 1964, and further extensive renovations were carried out between 1976 and 1989, restoring the floor to its original level and reintroducing vaults in the Gothic sections.

Architectural Features

St. Martini Church boasts a captivating blend of architectural styles, reflecting its long and varied history. The main choir and the flanking side choirs feature semicircular interiors and five-sided exteriors. The main choir is adorned with simple blind niches around the clerestory windows, while the side chapels are characterized by round-arched, shallow blind niches.

The southern transept arm was shortened in length, and the southern facade, with its Renaissance gable, aligns with the southern side chapel and the remaining western aisle. The western facade of the nave was destroyed during World War II and was rebuilt in 1964 in a modern style. A low round tower, known colloquially as the Icebreaker for its resilience against Rhine ice, is attached to the west end.

Inside, the crossing, southern transept arm, high choir, and western nave feature flat ceilings, while the high tower hall is star-vaulted. The Gothic nave is adorned with ribbed vaults, and the bases of the former rood screen can be found in the crossing area. The Romanesque apse is paved with a restored Romanesque floor made of white and blue Namur stone.

Interior Treasures

The interior of St. Martini Church houses a wealth of artistic and historical treasures. The Flemish brass baptismal font, created between 1531 and 1535 in Antwerp, is a striking example of Renaissance craftsmanship. Despite suffering damage during World War II, it has been carefully restored.

The choir stalls from 1486, though only 18 of the original 36 seats remain, are another highlight. Numerous wooden figures adorn the church, including a statue of St. Willibrord from the late 15th century and a Pietà attributed to H. van Holt from around 1530. The church also features an epitaph for Duke Gerhard of Schleswig and Holstein from 1433 and an epitaph for Canon Wessel Huninck from 1519.

The main organ, built in 1989 by Orgelbau Romanus Seifert & Sohn, boasts 44 registers on three manuals and a pedal, with mechanical actions. A second organ, a chest organ built by Johannes Klais Orgelbau in 1978, is located in the crypt.

The Treasure Chamber

The treasure chamber of St. Martini Church, opened to the public in 1983, contains valuable relics and liturgical objects. Among the most notable items is the Ark of St. Willibrord, a reliquary from the 11th century. This exquisite piece, adorned with gemstones and gold leaf, holds relics of St. Willibrord and other saints.

St. Martini Church in Emmerich am Rhein is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history and art. Its walls tell stories of resilience, faith, and artistic achievement, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of North Rhine-Westphalia.